Chairmen elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the October 15, 2022, Osun State Local Government election returned to their respective council secretariats on Monday under tight security.
Newsmen who visited the Ifelodun Local Government headquarters in Ikirun, Olorunda Local Government in Igbona, and Osogbo Local Government secretariat in Oke-Baale confirmed that council officials had resumed their duties.
Heavy security personnel, including armed police officers and members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), were stationed at key roads leading to the council secretariats.
Security checkpoints were also observed along major routes, including the Osogbo/Kwara boundary road, Osogbo/Ilesa road, and Osogbo/Ibokun road. Despite the heightened security presence, business activities remained unaffected across the state capital.
Speaking in an interview with Newsmen, Jamiu Olawumi, a former Special Adviser on Education to ex-Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, confirmed that the chairmen and councillors had resumed work in all 30 local government areas.
He further stated that directives had been issued for council staff to return to work by Wednesday.
“All chairmen and councillors have resumed in all local governments and area councils in Osun State, including Irewole Local Government.”
“The local governments and local council development areas are active and vibrant.”
“Security is very tight, with responsible police officers, DSS, and Civil Defence personnel carrying out their duties as instructed by the Inspector General of Police.”
“Most of the chairmen have issued press releases instructing their workers to resume by Wednesday at the latest. After Wednesday, if they fail to return, their employment status will be determined. The ultimatum stands at 72 hours,” Olawumi stated.
Governor Ademola Adeleke, during a swearing-in ceremony on Sunday, had directed chairmen and councillors elected in the Saturday local government elections not to assume office yet.
His directive followed an ongoing dispute between his administration and the APC over the legitimacy of the election.
Before the election, the Osun State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) had also advised workers in all local government areas to stay home, citing concerns over the political standoff between the state government and the APC.
Meanwhile, Newsmen reached out to the state APC chairman, Kola Olabisi, who promised to respond in due course.
